Kathleen Farina v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2016)

Kathleen Farina filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on August 19, 2014, alleging that an influenza vaccination on October 11, 2012, caused her to suffer from Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS). She further alleged residual effects for more than six months and no prior award or settlement.

Respondent denied that the flu vaccine caused her GBS or any other injury. Despite the denial, the parties filed a joint stipulation agreeing to settle the case.

Respondent agreed to pay Kathleen Farina a lump sum of $87,000.00 as compensation for all damages. Special Master Denise Kathryn Vowell adopted the parties' stipulation on September 30, 2015.

A subsequent decision on January 19, 2016, by Chief Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey, awarded attorneys' fees and costs totaling $17,195.00 for attorney and paralegal fees, and $400.00 for petitioner's out-of-pocket costs, based on a stipulation of facts concerning attorneys' fees and costs. The public decision does not describe the specific onset of symptoms, medical tests, treatments, or expert witnesses.